How to apply
Application procedure
You can start the MScAPEC either in the fall or in the spring semester. Applications should be submitted to the Registration Office before the following deadlines:
- April 30 to start the program in the fall semester
- November 30 to start the program in the spring semester
Passed these deadlines applications can still be submitted but there is a late application fee of CHF 100 (an exemption applies to students enrolled in UniNe, UniL, UniGE or EPFL).
Applications are reviewed year-round, with admission decisions communicated within one month on average. Students who are in the process of completing their bachelor's degree (e.g. final year students) will be granted a conditional admission offer and asked to present their degree upon graduation.
For students enrolled in a bachelor's program at the University of Neuchâtel, please fill in this form (no application deadline).
For all other candidates, online applications can be submitted from this link. When online applications are closed, please send your application form and all other documents by e-mail to the Registration Office. In addition, all applicants are advised to include the following optional documents:
- A short letter of motivation (1 page max)
- A curriculum vitae
The programme is taught entirely in English, so a good command of the language is necessary. However a specific language certificate (e.g. TOEFL) is not mandatory.
Applicants who need a visa must start the procedure sufficiently early. We recommend that you apply at least six months before the beginning of classes: those who wish to start in September should apply before the end of March, and those who wish to start in February should apply before the end of August.
Admission requirements
Direct admission: students with a Bachelor's degree in Economics or Management/Business from a Swiss university
Students who hold or will obtain a Bachelor's degree from a Swiss university in economics, management, business administration, or related fields, qualify for direct admission.
Conditional admission: students with another Bachelor's degree from a Swiss university
Students who hold or will obtain a Bachelor's degree from a Swiss university in anoter field (such as political sciences or international relations) will be reviewed by the admissions committee.
- If the completed Bachelor's curriculum includes more than 30 ECTS in economics and quantitative methods, students will be considered for direct admission.
- If the completed Bachelor's curriculum does not cover economics and quantitative methods to a sufficient extent, students may be required to complete a one-term (30 ECTS) or two-terms (60 ECTS) pre-programme. The pre-programme will be composed of courses from the Bachelor's degree in Economics tailored to the specific needs of each candidate.
Students with a Bachelor's degree from a Swiss university of applied sciences (HEG/HES)
Fast track programme for student excellence : Students who hold or will obtain a Bachelor's degree in economics, management, business administration or a related field from a recognized Swiss university of applied sciences with an average grade of at least 5.00 can apply for direct admission.
Depending upon qualifications, applicants may be required to complete a one-term (30 ECTS) or two-terms (60 ECTS) pre-programme in Economics. The pre-programme will be composed of courses from the Bachelor's degree in Economics tailored to the specific needs of each candidate.
Students with a non-Swiss degree
Applications by students with a non-Swiss degree are reviewed by the admissions committee.
Depending on qualifications and grades, students can apply for direct admission. In some cases, students may be asked to complete a one-term (30 ECTS) or two-terms (60 ECTS) pre-programme in Economics. The pre-programme will be composed of courses from the Bachelor's degree in Economics tailored to the specific needs of each candidate.
Fees
Tuition fees
- CHF 515.00 per semester for Swiss residents
- CHF 790.00 per semester for non-Swiss residents
Application fees
For candidates enrolled in a bachelor's program in Switzerland we charge no administrative application fees.
Unfortunately, because of disingenuous applications in the past, all other candidates must pay an application fee of CHF 100. This fee is fully reimbursed when the student is admitted and starts the program (the amount is deducted from the tuition fees for the first semester).
Need information?
For any questions please contact Prof. Bruno Lanz

Applications
When online applications are closed, please send your application form and all other documents by e-mail to the Registration office.
Application form for students who have a Bachelor degree from the UniNE
Academic prizes
Henri Grandjean prize for the best master dissertation related to an economic or social issue
CHF 500.-)
Laureate 2022
- Pablo Beyer
Laureates 2021
- Alessio Lombini
- David Zahnd
- Alessio Lombini
- David Zahnd
Laureates 2020
- Anthony Nguyen
- Rita Mairam Ischkanian Schmutz
Laureate 2019
- Laia Soler
Interdisciplinary Academin Award for Sustainable Development
CHF 2'500.-)
Laureate 2022
- Benjamin Ignoto
Laureate 2021
- Nicola Francescutto